Mykonos South Coast Cruise

Explore the Stunning South Coast of Mykonos on a Traditional Greek Boat

The Mykonos South Coast Cruise offers a captivating half-day experience for those wanting to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the full-day commitment. Priced at $108.91 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour departs from Ornos Beach and features traditional Kaiki-style boats. The cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing day with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and sample authentic Greek food, all while enjoying scenic views of the Cyclades.

This tour stands out with its unbeatable combination of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and convenient stops. The hotels pickup option adds extra comfort, though it involves an additional fee. The overall 4.5-star rating from three reviews suggests it offers good value, especially for those who appreciate a well-organized, friendly crew and scenic water-based adventures.

Key Points

• Half-day cruise exploring Mykonos’ south coast starts at 10 am from Ornos Beach.
• Traditional Greek Kaiki-style boat provides an authentic sailing experience.
• Includes swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views of beaches and rocky islets, weather permitting.
• Visit the uninhabited island of Dragonisi to see caves, rock formations, and potentially wild goats and eagles.
• Enjoy a Greek picnic lunch with wine, ouzo, and snacks on Frangias Beach.
• Optional hotel pickup and drop-off available for extra charge, making logistics easier.

Departure Point and Logistics at Ornos Beach

The tour starts at the bus/boat stop at Ornos Beach at 09:30 am, with the cruise beginning promptly at 10:00 am. Group sizes are limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The meeting point is clearly marked and accessible, with the option of extra transfer services for €10 per person for hotels in Mykonos Town and Platis Gialos, or €18 for other parts of the island.

Travelers should plan to arrive on time, especially if they opt for the optional hotel transfer. Since the tour uses a mobile ticket, it simplifies check-in, and the confirmation arrives immediately upon booking. A full refund is available if the cancellation is made at least 24 hours in advance.

From Ornos to the Rocky Isle of Dragonisi

The cruise begins with a passage along the south coast of Mykonos, passing by beautiful beaches like Ornos, which is famous for its lively atmosphere and golden sands. On weather-permitting days, the boat crosses over to Dragonisi, an uninhabited rocky island known for its caves and mineral-rich waters.

This stop lasts around 25 minutes, offering a chance to take photos of the stunning rock formations and spot wild mountain goats and eagles if luck is on your side. The mineral colors in the water create an unforgettable visual effect, making this a favorite part of the tour for many.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Frangias Beach

Next, the boat anchors at Frangias Beach for approximately an hour, which is highly praised for its crystal-clear waters. This stop provides ample opportunity for swimming and snorkeling, with the chance to enjoy the calm, transparent sea. The beach’s natural setting makes it ideal for those wanting a peaceful break away from busier spots.

The Greek picnic lunch is served on the beach, featuring wine, ouzo, Greek snacks, and a delicious picnic curated to give a taste of local flavors. This laid-back meal complements the relaxing setting, allowing guests to unwind amid scenic surroundings.

Lunch at Kalafatis Beach and Water Sports Options

After the swim, the tour moves to Paralia Kalafati, a charming bay with a seaside restaurant. Here, travelers enjoy a traditional Greek lunch that includes a Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, oven-roast chicken with potatoes or vegetarian pasta, plus a quarter liter of wine and water.

Post-lunch, there is about an hour of leisure time that can be spent either on the beautiful beach or at the nearby coffee bar. Many water sports activities are available on Kalafatis Beach, providing additional fun options for those seeking adventure or relaxation.

Visiting Paradise Beach and the Famous Tropicana Bar

The cruise continues with a visit to Paradise Beach, renowned for its lively Tropicana Bar, which has recently been recognized as one of the best beach bars worldwide. During this stop, travelers can enjoy another swim or explore the party scene at the bar, famous for its vibrant atmosphere.

This stop lasts approximately an hour, making it a great opportunity for some people-watching, sips of cocktails, or just soaking up the sun in a more festive environment.

The Experience on a Traditional Greek Kaiki Boat

The boat used for this cruise is a traditional Greek Kaiki, offering an authentic sailing experience that adds to the charm of the tour. The crew and multilingual escort—speaking Greek, English, Spanish, Italian, and French—ensure a smooth and engaging journey, providing insights into the sights and local culture.

Guests appreciate the friendly crew and the informative commentary, which helps deepen the appreciation of each location. The comfortable seating and scenic routes contribute to the overall enjoyment of the cruise.

Food and Drinks Included in the Tour

The lunch at Kalafatis is a highlight, featuring a personal Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, and oven-roast chicken with potatoes or vegetarian pasta. The wine and water provided complement the meal well, giving guests a true taste of Greek hospitality.

In addition, Ouzo and Greek snacks are available during the picnic stops, allowing a relaxed sampling of local beverages and bites. Although gratuities are not included, tipping the crew is generally recommended for their attentive service.

Flexibility and Additional Costs

While the main tour covers 4.5 hours of sailing and stops, optional extra transfer services can be booked for €10 per person for hotels in Mykonos Town and Platis Gialos, or €18 for other locations on the island. These transfers cannot be arranged less than 24 hours before the tour begins.

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option in case of changing plans or weather concerns.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This Mykonos South Coast Cruise is well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities. It appeals to travelers who appreciate authentic Greek experiences, including local cuisine and traditional boats.

Guests who value comfortable group sizes and friendly multilingual guides will find this tour particularly enjoyable. It offers a good balance of water-based activities, scenic stops, and leisure time for a memorable day on the Cyclades.

The Mykonos South Coast Cruise presents a great value for $108.91, especially considering the lunch, scenic stops, and water activities included. The authentic Kaiki boat, combined with friendly crew and well-planned itinerary, offers a relaxed day with ample opportunities to enjoy beautiful beaches, rocky islands, and local flavors.

While Paradise Beach might be lively for some, many find the secluded beaches and rocky islets more appealing, aligning with the tour’s tranquil vibe. The optional hotel transfer adds convenience but requires prior planning.

This tour delivers a memorable glimpse of Mykonos’ natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to combine sightseeing, swimming, and authentic Greek cuisine in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but given the boat stops for swimming and snorkeling, it’s best suited for those comfortable with light water-based activities.

Can I visit Dragonisi island if the weather is poor?
The visit to Dragonisi depends on weather conditions; if poor weather prevents crossing, that part of the tour might be canceled or replaced.

What is included in the meal on the ship?
While the picnic lunch on Frangias Beach and the lunch at Kalafatis are included, additional drinks or extras are not. The meal features Greek staples like salad, Tzatziki, bread, and a choice of chicken or vegetarian pasta, with wine and water.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 19 days in advance on average, to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Are transfers necessary?
Transfers are optional and can be added for an extra fee. They are not included in the base price but improve convenience for travelers staying outside Ornos Beach.